Andaman Entry Permit Guide 2026: RAP, Documents & Rules
Complete guide to Andaman travel permits, entry requirements, restricted area permits (RAP), and documents needed for Indian and foreign tourists.
✔ Indian Citizens
- • No permit needed for Port Blair, Havelock, Neil Island
- • Valid government photo ID required (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport)
- • RAP needed only for restricted tribal areas
- • No special permission for Baratang or Diglipur
ⓘ Foreign Nationals
- • Valid passport + Indian visa required
- • RAP issued free on arrival at Port Blair airport
- • 30-day stay allowed (extendable)
- • Some islands require additional permits
Understanding Andaman Permits
Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
The RAP is the primary permit required to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It was introduced to protect indigenous tribal communities and the sensitive ecology of the islands.
Who needs it?
Only foreign nationals need a RAP. Indian citizens do NOT need any permit to visit tourist areas in Andaman.
How to get it?
Issued free of cost on arrival at Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair. Simply fill out a form at the immigration counter. It takes 5-10 minutes.
Tribal Area Permit
Special permits required to visit areas inhabited by protected tribal communities (Sentinelese, Jarawa, Onge, Great Andamanese, Shompen). These areas are strictly off-limits.
Who needs it?
These permits are generally NOT issued to tourists. The Jarawa Reserve is a transit zone only — you can drive through on the Andaman Trunk Road but cannot stop or interact.
How to get it?
Contact the Andaman & Nicobar Administration or Deputy Commissioner's office. Tourist visits to tribal areas are strongly discouraged and regulated.
Forest & Wildlife Permits
Required for visiting national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and protected forest areas like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Who needs it?
Both Indian and foreign tourists need these for specific parks. Fees differ for Indians (₹25-50) and foreigners (₹500-1000).
How to get it?
Available at the respective forest checkpoints or can be arranged through your tour operator. We include all forest permits in our packages.
Documents Checklist
Indian Citizens
- ✔Government Photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving Licence)
- ✔Flight/Ship tickets (for verification)
- ✔Hotel booking confirmation
- ✔Ferry tickets (if pre-booked)
- ✔COVID vaccination certificate (check latest rules)
- ✔Photo ID for children (birth certificate or school ID)
Foreign Nationals
- ✔Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- ✔Valid Indian visa (tourist/e-visa)
- ✔RAP form (filled on arrival at Port Blair airport)
- ✔2 passport-size photographs
- ✔Hotel booking confirmation
- ✔Return flight ticket
- ✔Travel insurance (recommended)
Island-wise Permit Requirements
| Island / Area | Indians | Foreigners | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port Blair | No permit | RAP (on arrival) | Capital city, fully open |
| Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) | No permit | RAP (on arrival) | Most popular tourist island |
| Neil (Shaheed Dweep) | No permit | RAP (on arrival) | Open to all tourists |
| Ross Island | No permit | RAP (on arrival) | Entry fee: ₹30 Indians, ₹300 foreigners |
| North Bay Island | No permit | RAP (on arrival) | Popular snorkeling spot |
| Baratang | No permit | RAP + photo ID | Transit through Jarawa Reserve |
| Diglipur | No permit | RAP + registration | Register at Diglipur police station |
| Little Andaman | No permit | Special permit | Limited tourist access |
| Nicobar Islands | Special permit | Not allowed | Restricted tribal area |
Important Rules & Regulations
No Coral or Shell Collection
It is illegal to collect, purchase, or carry coral, shells, or marine specimens. Heavy fines and confiscation at the airport.
Photography Restrictions
No photography at Jarawa Reserve or tribal areas. Underwater photography at some sites requires a small fee (₹50-100).
Strict Plastic Ban
Single-use plastics are banned in Andaman. Carry reusable bags and water bottles. Shops do not provide plastic bags.
No Damage to Marine Life
Do not touch, stand on, or damage coral reefs while snorkeling or diving. Use reef-safe sunscreen only.
No Camping on Beaches
Camping on beaches without permission is prohibited. Some designated areas allow it with forest department approval.
Alcohol Regulations
Andaman has relatively relaxed alcohol laws. Liquor is available and cheap (lower taxes). But no drinking on public beaches.
Permit & Entry FAQs
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